Department
Dongvile Public Library
The Dongvile Public Library offers books, computers, free wireless internet, story time and a quiet place to work, free with a library card.
Services
- Library CardsFree for anyone who lives, works, owns property or goes to school in Brisket County.
- Books and MaterialsAbout 28,000 books, audiobooks, DVDs and magazines, plus a complete 1998 encyclopedia set.
- Computers and PrintingEight public computers, free wireless internet, printing and copies.
- Story TimeToddler story time on Wednesdays and preschool story time on Saturdays, both at 10:30 a.m.
- Meeting RoomFree for nonprofit and community groups. Seats 40.
- Interlibrary LoanBorrow books the library does not own from other Texas libraries.
- Library BoardFive residents who advise City Council on library policy.
About the Library
The Dongvile Public Library has served the community since 1923. It moved into its current building on W Queso St in 1978, and the building was renovated in 2015. The collection includes about 28,000 books, audiobooks, DVDs and magazines; a local history room with The Dongvile Gazette on microfilm; and a complete 1998 encyclopedia set.
Get a Library Card
Library cards are free for anyone who lives, works, owns property or attends school in Brisket County. Bring a photo ID and something with your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. Children under 18 need a parent or guardian to sign their application. Other Texas residents may buy a card for $15 a year.
Borrowing
| Item | Loan period | Limit per card |
|---|---|---|
| Books and audiobooks | 3 weeks | 10 |
| DVDs | 1 week | 5 |
| Magazines | 1 week | 5 |
| Encyclopedias (1998) | Library use only | — |
Items can be returned at the circulation desk or in the book drop at the front entrance, which is open 24 hours. Please do not put DVDs in the book drop.
Programs
| Program | When |
|---|---|
| Toddler Story Time (ages 1–3) | Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. |
| Preschool Story Time (ages 3–5) | Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. |
| Computer Basics | First Thursday, 2:00 p.m. |
| Teen Craft Hour | Second and fourth Fridays, 4:00 p.m. |
| Adult Book Club | Third Tuesday, 4:30 p.m. |
All programs are free, and registration is not required. See the Calendar for special events.
Computers and Printing
Eight public computers are available in one-hour sessions, and free wireless internet reaches the parking lot. Black-and-white prints and copies are 10 cents a page. Color prints are 50 cents a page. Staff can help with resumes, job applications and printing forms.
Dewey Decimal, Library Cat
Dewey Decimal has served as Library Cat since 2014. He is on duty during regular library hours, usually in the reading room or on the circulation desk. In August 2026 he was named Library Employee of the Month, again. Visitors with allergies may ask staff where he is before entering the reading room.
Library Board
The five-member Library Board is appointed by City Council and meets quarterly on the second Wednesday. The board advises council on library policy, hours and the collection. Councilmember Francine Goodnight serves as council liaison to the Library Board and to Dewey Decimal.
Staff
| Name | Title | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Dolores Pawelek | Library Director | [email protected] |
| Amber Kocurek | Youth Services Librarian | [email protected] |
| Gene Voelkel | Circulation Clerk | [email protected] |
| Dewey Decimal | Library Cat | [email protected] |
Documents
- Library Card Application
- Meeting Room Policy and Reservation Form
- Collection Development Policy
- Library Annual Report, FY 2026
Frequently asked questions
Who can get a library card?
Anyone who lives, works, owns property or attends school in Brisket County, at no charge. Other Texas residents may buy a card for $15 a year. Bring a photo ID and something showing your current address.
Does the library charge overdue fines?
No. Borrowing is paused until overdue items are returned or lost items are paid for.
How do I renew items?
Call the library or ask at the circulation desk. Most items can be renewed twice unless someone else is waiting for them.
Can I donate books?
Yes. Bring donations to the circulation desk during open hours. Donated books may be added to the collection or sold at the Friends of the Library sale. The library does not accept encyclopedias. The collection already has a complete set.
Can I check out the library cat?
No. Dewey Decimal is a member of the library staff and is not part of the circulating collection.